The new school year gets underway in Urbana today, Wednesday, August 19, with students heading back to the classroom and local officials reminding drivers to make safety a priority.
Today also marks the first day of school for Ohio Hi-Point Career Center students, as the career center begins its new school year alongside Urbana.
The Urbana Fire Division is encouraging drivers, students and families to do their part to make the start of the school year safe and successful.
Drivers are reminded to watch for children, especially around school zones, crosswalks and neighborhoods. Motorists should slow down, stay alert, and be prepared for children who may be walking or biking to school.
School bus safety is also a major focus as buses return to the roads. Drivers must stop when school bus lights are flashing and remain stopped until the stop arm is pulled back in and the bus begins moving.
Families are encouraged to buckle up every time they get in a vehicle and make sure children are properly restrained in an appropriate car seat or booster seat.
Drivers should also pay close attention to posted speed limits in school zones. The Urbana safety campaign reminds motorists that school-zone speed limits are 20 miles per hour for a reason.
Another important reminder is to put down the phone while driving. Officials encourage motorists to keep their attention on the road and avoid distractions, especially in areas where children and school buses are present.
Drivers are also encouraged to be alert and leave early enough to avoid rushing. Allowing extra time can make it easier to watch for students, buses, and increased traffic around schools.
Urbana and Ohio Hi-Point students are among the first local students to return to school, with other area districts scheduled to begin classes over the coming days and weeks.
As more students return to classrooms, drivers are reminded that slowing down, staying focused, and following school-zone and school-bus safety rules can help keep students and families safe.
Together, local officials say, the community can help make it a safe and successful school year.
